Touched by the Spirit of "Britten's Run"

Our family was deeply touched by the spirit of Britten's Run.  The love that was shared that day was experienced by all.  After the run, an individual shared with me that "the feeling" here is just incredible!  To see family's together on a beautiful morning is just wonderful.  We should do this more often!

After the runners and walkers took off and individual came up to me and said,  I know that you don't know me, but I would like to introduce myself. I'm Kerry Harding from Washington D.C.   As my jaw dropped, I exclaimed, "Of course I know you!"  You are the one that sent Britten a birthday package while he was in the hospital in SLC.  You  are the one that sent him a "welcome home gift" after reading about it on the blog".  The package contained the Brazil soccer team jersey that was worn in the Olympics, Brazilian goodies, inspirational music and sunshine candy!  But what meant the most was the heart touching letters that were included.  Brother Harding, You are an inspiration to us!  You have made me think about my life and have inspired me to be a better person.  To reach out to others, (even when thousands of miles separate you) to cheer and lift one's spirit. 
We visited with him for 2 or 3 minutes, took pictures with him, then he said, "I better get going, this is my first 5K ever!"  We didn't see him the rest of the day.  It was if he was an "angel" that came and touched our hearts, then was gone.  Brother Harding, you will always have a special place in our hearts...especially Britten's!



Our cousins, Dan and LaNae Maughn rode their bikes sporting their "Britten's Run shirts" in support of Britten.  They rode 36.85 miles, riding from their apartment in San Diego, CA to Mission Bay and back, arriving home at 11pm.  Dan and his family are some of our "Heroes" because of their courageous examples of battling through his accident over 25 years ago, leaving him with a TBI and some physical challenges.  One thing we know about Dan is...He Will Never Give Up!


So many individuals touched our lives that day.  People from all walks of life that gave up a beautiful Saturday morning to show love and support to our family.  We are truly thankful for your sacrifice, generosity, friendship and love!
We love each and every one of you!
Steven, Karla & Britten

Saturday morning when I walked from the parking lot across the grass, I was overcome by the sight of all the people that were there for Britten's Run, and it was hard to control my emotions. Everything was so well organized and well prepared. I had the very strong feeling that the Hand of the Lord was in attendance that day. At the start of every committee meeting we would say a prayer and thank Heavenly Father for the opportunity that we had to perform a service for the Schenk family, and please help us to be able to put it all together. And help us He did indeed. SO MANY people were willing to help and spent countless hours to make it a huge success. We will never be able to repay everyone for their help and generosity. Blessings will come to those that were so kind.
co/chairman - Val and Janice Andreasen (Britten's grandparents)










 
An example of persistence, courage and optimism, this young man is the very definition of a hero to me.   Only something this noble and worthwhile could have motivated me to come all the way from Washington, DC to run in my first 5k ever.
 Kerry Harding-

 Of all of the the things I've done in my life, participating in this event was definitely one of the Top 5. The excitement, the energy, the love -- it was all just electric. I've been photographed with many famous people through the years but the one with Britten, framed along with my event tshirt and race number, will take an honored place on the wall over my desk. Thank you for the honor of being part of this day.

  Kerry Harding-